![Bangladesh refuses travel to India [Source: @iemsahill, @raisul_rifat88/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1767792280569_Bangladesh_T20_World_Cup_2026.jpg?type=hq)
Bangladesh refuses travel to India [Source: @iemsahill, @raisul_rifat88/X.com]
The BCB has made it clear that it will not compromise on the safety and security of its players ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul said the board remains firm on its position regarding travel to India, where Bangladesh is scheduled to play its group matches.
The issue comes amid rising tension between the cricket boards after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was withdrawn from the IPL.
Since then, relations have remained strained, and Bangladesh have refused to travel to India for the T20 World Cup.
Bulbul reiterates Bangladesh’s tough stand vs India
Speaking to the media on Wednesday after a meeting with Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul, BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul said that the board had raised its concerns with the ICC and is waiting for guidance from the Bangladesh government.
"We first wrote to the ICC regarding the importance of security and safety. While our scope is limited to looking after the players, there is a large population beyond them, including journalists, sponsors, and cricket lovers,” Bulbul said.
He added that any overseas tour requires government approval, and the board is seeking advice before taking a final call. Bulbul also made it clear that this is not a routine complaint.
"Since a government order is required for any overseas trip, we are seeking the government's guidance. If safety and security do not improve, we will continue to fight for our rights. This is a valid concern; we have played many World Cups before, but never raised such issues until now," he added.
BCB dismisses reports of ICC ultimatum
Aminul Bulbul strongly denied reports claiming that the ICC has warned Bangladesh to play in India or risk forfeiting points. An ESPNcricinfo report had suggested that the ICC rejected Bangladesh’s request to shift matches out of India.
Labelling such claims as “propaganda,” Bulbul said no such ultimatum had been given. He stressed that the ICC has not closed the door on discussions.
"There is propaganda claiming the ICC informed us that playing in Sri Lanka is impossible, which is false news. We have been in communication with the ICC, and they have asked us to specify our issues. We are currently documenting those issues for them.”
Bangladesh unbothered about the consequences
When asked about the possible consequences if Bangladesh refuses to travel to India, Bulbul pointed to past examples.
The BCB president made it clear that Bangladesh is not looking for confrontation but wants a fair and safe solution.
"The BCB has certainly considered that. When the Champions Trophy was held [last year], India did not travel to Pakistan, and similarly, Pakistan did not go to India for the last few World Cups. Therefore, we hope for a proper resolution. If we have to compromise on the World Cup due to security issues in India, we will remain firm on our stance.”
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin in February, with Bangladesh’s first matches set to be played in Kolkata. For now, the BCB says player safety remains its top priority.
